Ethical consumption in Scotland is worth an estimated £2.1 bn and is set to grow dramatically over the next few years, bringing many opportunities for Scottish tourism businesses.

The Scottish tourism industry shares an ambition to grow revenues from tourism by 50 per cent by 2015, and it is crucial that this is achieved in a sustainable way.

The ‘Being Green’ Conference which takes place on Tuesday, 11 September at the Apex International Hotel, Edinburgh will address this issue. Scottish tourism businesses will hear the lastest thinking on sustainable tourism and ethical consumption at the conference, which has been organised by the Tourism Innovation Group and VisitScotland.

Robin Worsnop, Chair of the Tourism Innovation Group said: “The conference will give the Scottish tourism industry an insight into the latest thinking on sustainable tourism, the benefits and the challenges involved in developing business sustainably, and the dangers of ignoring our responsibilities to our natural environment, which is a core reason for our visitors to come to Scotland.”

Professor Ian Yeoman, Scenario Planning Manager, VisitScotland said: “Forecasts for Scottish tourism suggest that the number of visitors will increase to dramatically over the next 20 years. While this will mean increased wealth for Scotland, it is crucial that this is achieved in a way which does not harm Scotland’s environment - the very thing that attracts many of our visitors.  

“The conference has been designed to give delegates an insight into the latest international developments in this field, as well as giving them an understanding of why taking a sustainable approach can be good for business.”

Source: www.visitscotland.org